Discussion 1: Problematic characteristics of current K-pop "fandom"

What are the problematic characteristics of current K-pop "fandom"? Would it be possible for idols to begin implementing a different relationship dynamic with their fans, and if so, how?

As Elfving-Hwang (2018, 190) mentions, k-pop idols have developed from being only the "idealized others" to be imitated to an object of adulation of familial affection. In other word, idols and fans have built an intimate relationship, which is the root of the many problematic fandom behaviors. Along the spectrum of "parasocial attachment" (Ibid.), stronger or weaker affections lead to different levels problematic behavior. Sasaeng fan is the most notorious example. Being extremely fanatic, they invade into idol's house or buy the same flight with their idols. Another example is fandom wars between two fandoms. Fans feel the responsibility to fight for the interest and right of their idol and protect him/her. A more common example would be requiring their beloved idol to remain single since dating with others is perceived as a betrayal to their love. In those three examples, the "parasocial attachment" is the driven force. Sasaeng fans are totally blinded with the desire to approach their idols while left respect behind. In other examples, fans have an illusion that they are justified in either protecting the idol or controlling his/her behavior. However, since the attachment is also the foundation for earning from fans, those problems are hard to eradicate without significant change in the relationship.

Therefore, a different relationship dynamic is the answer to those problems. I argue that a relationship based on a sincere, meaningful, and intellectual conversation between idols and fans will shed light on better fandom and stardom. In the current relationship, there is a lacking of solid messages. What is communicated is always deliberately promoted images of idols, which remain superficial. As Wang mentioned in class, their promoted individuality are "exchangeable" with the sole purpose of satisfying different audiences' emotional needs. But if we think of true friends that help each other grow in life, it is impossible that they are only emotional supporters for each other. There must be deep and sincere conversations going on, where they get to truly accept a person that is different from him/herself. Such intellectual conversation adds up to the fullness and authenticity of other people. Similarly, between idols and fans, there should be deeper messages delivered other than superficial 'love' messages. Taking BTS as an example, even though public generally believe that their success is obtained by utilizing SNS, where they post their daily life frequently, I argue that SNS is still used for promoting the approachable images, while their messages, delivered through lyrics and stories, are the key to make their fans loyal. They touched topics like school bully, stress, youth, growing up, and self-love. Those messages confirm the authenticity of BTS as real people, who share the same confusion as fans. Thus, some fans are encouraged, some are inspired to reflect on these topics. The intellectual conversation contributes to the fullness of the idols by showing their real thoughts and worries. In this relationship, idols and fans are more like friends other than pretended lovers that render improper desire of protection and possession.

Elfving-Hwang, Joanna. "K-pop Idols, Artificial Beauty and Affective Fan Relationships in South Korea." In Routledge Handbook of Celebrity Studies, edited by Anthony Elliott, 190-201. London: Routledge, 2018.

By: Yujuan

#kpop #nuest #fandom #music